Breadcrumb

Supplemental Instruction (SI)

Structured, Interactive Study Sessions

With Supplemental Instruction (SI), you integrate “how to learn” with “what to learn.”
SI sessions are held twice a week throughout the semester and sometimes include extra
review sessions for big exams.

Your SI Leader will be a student who has successfully passed the course. The leader’s
job is to attend class with you, then prepare games and activities for the SI to help
you learn.

If you are in a challenging course, listen for in-class announcements or ask your
professor if SI support is available.

Supplemental Instruction is unique

SI leaders tailor sessions for a specific course and instructor. Anyone enrolled in
the supported course, no matter how confident or confused, is invited to attend SI.
Learning, reviewing, and preparing for tests happens in a structured yet relaxed environment.

Supplemental Instruction is active

In SI sessions, students work together to clarify concepts, compare notes, and develop
strategies for studying. SI is the place for you to ask questions, review readings
and homework, and prepare study tools. You are not alone; someone who knows how to
succeed in the course will guide you.

Supplemental Instruction is effective

Students who regularly attend and participate in SI earn higher grades. With SI support,
they withdraw less often from challenging courses, saving time and money.

SI Resources For Instructors

What is SI?

Supplemental Instruction is an academic support service that provides peer-facilitated
study sessions for undergraduate students in high-risk courses. SI sessions are informal
review sessions where students discuss course material, develop important organizational
and study skills, and integrate the material and skills as a group. These sessions
are led by an SI Leader—a student who has taken the course successfully—working with
the guidance of the partner professor who teaches the course being supported. SI Leaders
receive training by SI staff, attend lectures, and meet regularly with the course
instructor.

How does SI help students?

While most tutoring services target specific students, SI focuses on the course. Instead
of pointing out an individual student as needing help, SI creates a "big tent" that
invites all students in the class to participate. This reduces the stigma and anxiety some students
experience asking for help.

What courses are a good fit for SI?

1000 – 2000 level undergraduate courses

Gatekeeper or Gateway Courses

High-enrollment courses that include difficult content

Courses with a historically moderate to high rate of students earning Ds, Fs, or withdrawing
from the course (typically a DFW rate ≥30%

Lecture-intensive courses where students would benefit from hands-on practice with
the content

Faculty Manual

testimonial

"My experience in SI has been great. Not only was I able to connect with students
having the same difficulties as me, but I also found new ways to improve habits. After
learning these habits, I have noticed a drastic change in my grades and personal life."